Techniques for cochlear implant electrode placement in the ossified cochlea

Labyrinthitis ossificans, once considered a contraindication for cochlear implantation, can now be managed effectively to ensure electrode placement while preserving cochlear structure and neural function. Judicious use of computed axial tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scanning to stage the level of cochlear duct obstruction is critical to surgical planning and for choosing which electrodes to have available during surgery. Outcomes reflect the degree of cochlear ossification, the depth of electrode insertion achieved, and the care taken to avoid thermal and direct trauma to the remaining ganglion cells in the spiral lamina.